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October 10, 2020: A View That Isn't There

 

On our first afternoon in Corning, New York, on our way to a late lunch, our eye was caught by this spectacular confection of trompe l'oeil on a brick building.

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It's so well executed that even after recognizing the faux arches, it took me a second look to realize half the second-floor windows were also fake. It's the work of Hammondsport, New York artist Brett Steeves, who was hired by the now-defunct Brickhouse Brewery restaurant to paint the mural that depicts historical scenes from Corning.

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The building's two arches offer a view of Corning looking across to the other side of the Chemung River, not that far away, and featuring a bridge that still exists, as well as a steam-hauled train that doesn't.

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Sadly, no chance to try out the burgers and brew at Brickhouse Brewery, because it closed for good a few weeks ago, likely a victim of the pandemic. Before it was Brickhouse, the premises operated as That Other Place. It's for rent now, ready to open, and you can pick your own new name.

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The characters in the windows seemed friendly enough, though I did wonder if the guitar player was leaning out a bit too far.

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The gaffer, below, can be found all over Corning, and is a symbol of Corning Glass Company.

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And, for those of you who are really into not-so-subtle irony, here's a close-up. Take all the time you want...

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The best part of every trip is realizing that it has upset your expectations

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